Roger and I escaped to the bookstore one of these freezing cold days. After all, that’s how we met – our mutual love for books and warmth! We take turns watching the little guy run wild over the Thomas the Train table. I brought a stack of the newest sewing books back to sit down and page through while watching Edwin. I was completely captivated by this book. All old ideas, old techniques, complete deconstructionism. But all done so well and with such charming results.

The whole premise of the book is cotton jersey – otherwise known as t-shirt knit. While I probably wouldn’t make some of the things in cotton jersey, I think something like the gorgeous placemats would be perfect in linen.

The jersey is perfect in Alabama Chanin’s world because of the lack of raveling. Jersey curls up perfectly without dangling threads. And since she does everything from beading to applique and reverse applique, not raveling is essential. Still, I imagine that you can go from there. After all, they do make silk jersey! Mmm…

The book came with a stencil pattern – quite nice, even I am wavering over whether to actually use it. And a sleeveless top to full dress pattern stashed in the back. And you know what? The pattern fits me!!! I haven’t had a pattern actually fit me in years without major modifications! That’s why most everything I do is self drafted and draped on my dress form. You try easing a 14 to an 8 and back. It’s just not worth it to buy patterns. So I was completely and totally thrilled at a pattern fitting me!

Fits just right on Gertrude!

Topstitching with a feather stitch.

I machine stitched most of the sleeveless t-shirt. In the author’s world, everything is hand sewed. Uh huh. Quite right for couture, but in my world, I have very little time and I save hand sewing for where it counts! I decided on a pattern of stars or “Alabama eyelets” interspersed with basic stars. I’m not quite done yet. After all, it’s not sleeveless weather here right now and I’m having fun!

The first reverse applique did not go great, but looks better when stretched a bit. It's also around the side where it hardly shows.

One modification I made is since I can’t get hold of heavy enough jersey easily, I just doubled the fabric. I used navy on the outside, cream inside for the reverse applique stars to show through.

The machine feather stitch is not as nice as handsewn, but does do the job nicely.

I can tell you right now that since this shirt is flattering and very easy I will be making more. Some will have embellishments, some will not. as a work from home mommy, I spend over half my year in t-shirts. It’s time for some nice ones that fit me, not the box they apparently use for fitting! And I can’t wait to try the skirt and dress patterns out!

This is just a lovely and fun book. The author’s years in Europe as a photo stylist really show but the best part is how it made my hands itch to try some more projects. It’s all a bit heavy handed but so much fun!

After the t-shirts, I think I’ll try a tablecloth with reverse and regular appliques. Maybe some sparkly beads to shine in the candlelight. I’m thinking fall leaves…